FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is where the robots become even more sophisticated through a focus on intentional design, professional fabrication and coding using Java, an industry-standard.
FIRST Tech Challenge bridges the gap between NYC youth and robotics, providing an accessible and more affordable avenue to the world of design and engineering. With more than 100 teams spread over every inch of NYC, there’s a good chance that a school near you offers FTC programming and we are always welcoming new teams.
Being a part of an FTC team is life-changing for students in NYC. In addition to the technical skills of designing, building, coding and operating their robot, FTC teams also focus on technical documentation and team sustainability through their engineering portfolios.
Throughout the fall and winter, teams compete head-to-head in order to qualify for NYC’s Super Qualifiers and Championship. Guided by adult coaches and mentors, students develop STEM skills and practice engineering principles, while realizing the value of hard work, innovation, and working as a team.
Stay tuned for judging resouces from our STEM Centers or othe NYC teams! If your team has a judging resource they would like to share, please email mick@nycfirst.org.
Each year hundreds of individuals give their time, energy, and creativity to help bring the NYC FIRST experience to thousands of youth across the city. Volunteers, like you, are essential to making our programs possible. Our volunteers have the unique opportunity, either as a judge or referee, to watch our young participants learn, invent, and compete, all while having a lot of fun at the competitions!
To get started with your volunteer journey, sign up on the FIRST website and follow the directions for Event Volunteering (search NYC in the ‘Event, City or Venue’ box to see the list of our events). If you need any assistance in signing up, please Contact Us.
